Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has officially suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to its failure to implement necessary constitutional amendments. This marks yet another setback for Pakistan’s football community, as the federation faces suspension for the third time since 2017.
Why Did FIFA Suspend PFF?
FIFA’s decision comes after the PFF Congress rejected proposed amendments aimed at ensuring fair and democratic elections. According to FIFA, the suspension will only be lifted if the PFF Congress approves the constitution recommended by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
In a statement, FIFA emphasized that the PFF’s failure to adopt the required changes has obstructed the normalization process, which was crucial to holding transparent elections. The global football body had previously set a deadline of February 15 for PFF elections, but the process stalled due to Congress’ refusal to amend key provisions, particularly those related to presidential candidacy.
Haroon Malik’s Warning Before Suspension
Prior to FIFA’s decision, Haroon Malik, the Chairman of the PFF Normalization Committee (PFFNC) appointed by FIFA, had warned of the looming suspension. Addressing the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination, he highlighted that Pakistan risked losing its FIFA membership if Congress did not comply with the proposed amendments.
Following the suspension, Haroon Malik has reached out to Congress members, urging them to convene and resolve the issue. However, the ongoing political turmoil within the PFF continues to pose challenges to Pakistan’s football development.
Impact of the Suspension
The suspension is a major blow to Pakistan’s football landscape, preventing the national team and clubs from participating in international competitions under FIFA’s umbrella. This also means that FIFA funding and development programs for Pakistan’s football will remain suspended until the issue is resolved.
What’s Next for PFF?
To lift the suspension, the PFF Congress must reconsider its stance and approve the FIFA-AFC-backed constitution. If Congress fails to reach a consensus, Pakistan may face prolonged isolation from international football, affecting players, coaches, and the overall football infrastructure in the country.
With pressure mounting, all eyes are now on PFF Congress to determine the future of football in Pakistan. The coming weeks will be crucial in deciding whether the suspension remains in place or if Pakistan regains its FIFA membership.
 has officially suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to its failure to implement necessary constitutional amendments. This marks yet another setback for Pakistan’s football community, as the federation faces suspension for the third time since 2017.){kind=link}